Steam users have long enjoyed the nuances of the compatibility check mark for games on the platform. Now, an exciting enhancement allows players to assess a title’s compatibility with both the Steam Machine and SteamOS directly from its store page. This feature arrives shortly after the Steam Machine’s June release, enabling users to quickly determine whether Valve’s innovative gaming console can handle their gaming library.
Compatibility Insights at a Glance
By simply clicking ‘learn more’ next to the Steam Deck compatibility rating, players can access a concise overview of what works and what doesn’t across Valve’s diverse hardware and software offerings. For instance, the much-anticipated game Black Myth: Wukong currently holds an ‘unknown’ status regarding its compatibility with the Steam Machine. The accompanying message indicates that “Valve is still learning” about this 2024 title, suggesting that it may be too demanding for the Steam Machine’s specifications, potentially failing to meet the necessary frame rate thresholds during gameplay.
In contrast, Wukong is noted as running “successfully on SteamOS,” which opens up the possibility for gamers to enjoy it on more robust hardware from other manufacturers, such as the Lenovo Legion Go. This flexibility allows players to bypass the limitations of the Steam Machine’s hardware and its often criticized price point and availability.
However, transitioning to SteamOS on a personal computer does come with its own set of challenges. Valve’s Linux-based operating system is known for its occasional incompatibility with kernel-level anti-cheat systems, which are increasingly prevalent in competitive gaming environments.
Valve continues to explore compatibility for a range of titles, including Dragon’s Dogma 2, Elden Ring Nightreign, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, and Resident Evil Requiem. Meanwhile, several games that achieve a ‘Playable’ status on Valve’s handheld, like 007: First Light, can leverage the Steam Machine’s superior hardware to earn a ‘Verified’ rating.
On a personal note, I have been indulging in less graphically intensive games. For example, the level-based diorama builder Shanty Town boasts ‘Verified’ status on both the Steam Deck and Steam Machine, along with SteamOS compatibility. Another favorite this month has been Magical Princess, which, despite its whimsical title, carries a ‘Playable’ rating due to some quirks with text input and button glyph displays on both platforms.
At present, the Steam store does not allow users to filter results based on Steam Machine or SteamOS compatibility, though this feature is anticipated in the near future. The recent introduction of the Great on Frame category hints at the imminent release of the Steam Frame, suggesting that a similar compatibility category may soon follow for VR headsets when they arrive.
